Shamian is í«sand
surfaceí», which is not a true island, and it is now connected to the rest of the
city by a series of bridges. From the 18th to the mid 19th
century, it is the only place where foreign traders were permitted to set up
their warehouses and factories. The land has been increased to 27,000 sqmetres, 900m from east to west, and 300m
from north to south.

Shamian Island is
the reminder of Guangzhouí»s colonial history. It became a British and French
concession after they won in the Opium Wars, and is covered with decaying
colonial buildings which housed trading offices and residences.

The French Catholic
church has been restored and stands on the main boulevard. The boulevard itself
is a gentle stretch of gardens, trees and birdsong. Today, most of the buildings
are used as offices or apartments blocks.

While
most of Guangzhou is battling along at breakneck pace Shamian is merely ambling.
Along the river, the park area is a great place for people watching and tea
drinking. Or walk along the wide sidewalks and dine in the open-air under the
old trees.